DEGUMMING OF SILK FABRICS WITH TARTARIC ACID

The effectiveness of the tartaric acid degumming process for silk has been evaluated as a function of temperature, time and acid concentrati on in the degumming bath. The degummed samples were characterised as r egards physico-mechanical properties (tenacity, elongation at break, m odulus of elasticity) and intrinsic viscosity. Dyeability with acid, m etal-complex and reactive dyes has been determined spectrophotometrica lly. The possibility of carrying out subsequent degummings with the sa me bath was investigated. The effect of centrifuging and replenishing the bath with fresh degumming solution was also considered in relation to degumming efficiency. The results obtained are quite promising as a basis for possible future industrial application.